Dr. Frederick Edward Bryans 1924–2009
Dr. Bryans graduated in medicine from the University of Toronto in the class of 1946, and then from the residency program in obstetrics and gynecology under Dr. D.E. Cannell. Afterwards he completed research at Harvard University, and attended leading cancer treatment centres in Europe.
His professional career was spent as a geographic full-time faculty member in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of British Columbia. In 1960 he became professor and chairman of the department, a position that he served with distinction until 1978. During his 18 years as department head, he established strong educational, research and clinical programs – many at a Provincial level. He fostered a unique, supportive environment with a friendly, collegial atmosphere among faculty, trainees, and supporting staff members. He retired in 1989, but remained active as a Professor Emeritus in departmental and university affairs until shortly before his death at the age of 85 years.
During his distinguished career as teacher, academic, and practising obstetrician and gynecologist, he received many important awards. Of some pride to Dr. Bryans, graduating classes of the UBC Medical School repeatedly honored him with Best Educator awards. He taught with humour and kindness. He was also a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal.
Dr. Bryans was an accomplished generalist. His diverse publications include scholarly works on endocrinology, cancer, congenital abnormalities, and urinary incontinence. As testament to the gifted surgeon that he was, complex cases were referred to him by colleagues from all areas of the province. He contributed hugely to the health care of the women of British Columbia in a career that spanned two generations.
At national and international levels, Dr. Bryans served on the council and committees of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. He was a founding member and president of the Association of Professors of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of Canada, vice president of the Association of Professors of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in the United States, vice president of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada, and a Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (UK).
Education and research endeavours were supremely important to Dr. Bryans. Thus, his legacy of support for research continues in an endowment to the Department.
